The Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov - Berdiansk and Mariupol - are under blockade by the Russian Federation, - Volodymyr Omelyan

As of this evening, on November 28 2018, the Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov - Berdiansk and Mariupol - are effectively under blockade by the Russian Federation. Vessels are being barred from leaving and entering. Volodymyr Omelyan, the Minister of Infrastructure stated the above.

"Currently, 18 vessels are awaiting entry into the Sea of Azov - 4 to Berdiansk and 14 to Mariupol. There is also a line to leave the Sea of Azov and to enter the Black Sea: 3 vessels are currently unable to leave the Port of Berdiansk and 6 are unable to leave the Port of Mariupol. 8 other vessels are standing by near the port berths. Overall, 35 vessels have been prevented from carrying out normal operations. Only vessels moving towards Russian ports on the Sea of Azov are permitted entry. In essence, Russia has blocked Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov", - Volodymyr Omelyan said.

In his opinion, the actions of the Russian side aimed at escalating the crisis in the Azov Sea: "The goal is simple - by placing a blockade on Ukrainian ports on the Sea of Azov, Russia hopes to drive Ukraine out of our own territory - territory that is ours in accordance will all relevant international laws".